Louise Quinn wondered if Ireland got the game management wrong as she reflected on last night's 2-1 defeat to the Netherlands on RTÉ's Sunday Sport.
The Girls in Green have lost both of their games in the 2027 World Cup qualifiers 2-1 so far, but they would have been outsiders going into the clashes with France and the Orange Lionesses.
They were given a lifeline last night in Utrecht when they were awarded a soft penalty, which Katie McCabe converted.
And they continued to probe for the rest of the game, matching their more illustrious opponents in open play, before ultimately conceding a sloppy goal to Lineth Beerensteyn.
Quinn contrasted the games against the French and the Dutch and reckoned Ireland took a better approach against Les Bleus in Tallaght during the week.
"It is about a little bit more game intelligence in certain ways," the 122-capped former international said.
"The France game, how we were playing it was actually very well. They just had (Melvine) Malard come on and she had a couple of moments of quality in such a short space of time.
"We still had energy to go after them again and that clearance off the line from Denise's (O'Sullivan) shot by Katoto was just heartbreaking. I really thought we were going to get some points there.
"Then in the Netherlands game, we could see that we weren't creating as many chances, weren't getting the joy that we actually were against France.
"So, for me, it's then... I'm not going to say settle (for a point) but I think it's smart to be like, 'OK, it's 1-1 here. This is a good result - let's do what we're good at.'
"Reel them in, defend, and maybe try to create potential chances to catch them on the break.
"In moments you have to to realise the momentum in which the way the game is going. That is important in international football."
Ireland will look to get the campaign back on track next month with a double header against Poland, who are a point clear of Carla Ward's side after their home draw with the Dutch in midweek.
The Girls in Green are already assured of a play-off spot for the World Cup but they can give themselves an easier draw, on paper at least, by finishing further up the Nations League A table.
